This article presents a comparative analysis of titanium, nitrogen, and aluminum-based coatings, specifically TiN, AlTiN, and TiAlN, in the context of their tribological behavior and application in machining. Tribological friction and wear tests were performed using a ball-on-disc tribometer in rotary motion under dry friction. The specimens consisted of uncoated HS6-5-2C steel discs, HS6-5-2C steel discs coated with AlTiN, TiN, and TiAlN, and 100Cr6 steel balls as counter-samples. The wear of the discs and balls was evaluated via microscopic investigations, which included the analysis of surface geometry, microstructure, and chemical composition within the wear tracks. The differences in morphology and chemical composition revealed by microscopic analysis had a significant influence on the tribological behavior of the coatings. The addition of aluminum to titanium nitride coatings improved the tribological characteristics by reducing linear wear in the case of the AlTiN coating and providing low-friction properties for the TiAlN coating. Furthermore, compared to the other tested coatings, the TiAlN coating exhibited fewer built-up edges and a less developed surface after friction testing. The obtained results indicate that the appropriate selection of coatings is crucial for the efficiency of cutting tools in dry machining.